Benavidez and Haney Shine in Riyadh: An Unforgettable Boxing Saturday
The international boxing scene vibrated this weekend in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a card that left memorable moments and new questions. David Benavidez, Devin Haney, Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Abdullah Mason were the protagonists of a night that promised and delivered handsomely. Alofoke Deportes brings you the detailed analysis of each fight.
David Benavidez: The “Mexican Monster” on the Rise
David Benavidez defended his WBC and WBA super-middleweight titles with a dominant performance against Anthony Yarde. His performance, characterized by a combination of technique and aggressiveness, solidifies his position as one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. The technical knockout victory in the seventh round was a clear demonstration of his power.Description: David Benavidez, on the right, dominated Anthony Yarde with a technical knockout victory in the seventh round, retaining his WBC and WBA super-middleweight titles.
Benavidez’s victory, added to Canelo Álvarez’s recent defeat, opens the doors for “The Mexican Monster” to become the new face of Mexican boxing and, eventually, world boxing. Benavidez, of Mexican descent, has expressed his desire to take ownership of the emblematic dates of Mexican boxing, such as Cinco de Mayo and the weekend of Mexico’s Independence.
I have news for you. On May 2nd, I will face Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. I will move up to cruiserweight to challenge for his titles.
A Cinco de Mayo weekend showdown against a Mexican champion in another weight class is the perfect strategy for Benavidez to be consecrated. His style, based on constant pressure and the ability to connect powerful punches, makes him a fan favorite. Furthermore, his willingness to fight any opponent sets him apart from many of his contemporaries. At 29 years old, Benavidez has a promising future, while other boxing stars are beginning to age.
Devin Haney: A Questioned Champion?
Devin Haney, often criticized for his conservative style, showed a more aggressive side in his unanimous decision victory over Brian Norman Jr., conquering the WBO welterweight title. Haney knocked down Norman in the second round, but failed to finish his opponent. This lack of knockouts, which extends for six years, continues to raise doubts about his finishing ability.Description: Devin Haney, right, knocked down Brian Norman Jr. in the second round in a unanimous decision victory to win the WBO world welterweight title in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday.
Haney, however, demonstrated resilience and strategy against an opponent known for his power. His victory allows him to add a title in a third division, but criticism persists. His fighting style, cautious and calculating, has been compared to that of Floyd Mayweather. For many, this suggests that he is a vulnerable boxer, but it also makes it easier for him to secure the fights he wants, as his rivals believe they can beat him.
In 2024, I lost everything. Everything fell apart. In 2025, I came to get it back. In 2026, I’m going for everything.
Devin Haney
Promoter Eddie Hearn, while acknowledging Haney’s achievement, criticizes his fighting style, which he considers unattractive to viewers. Haney’s future in the division will depend on his ability to face other champions and unify titles.
Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez: Underestimated Brilliance
“Bam” Rodriguez unified three super flyweight world titles with a world-class performance against Fernando Martinez. Despite fighting in a lower weight class, his talent and determination make him a standout figure. His exciting style and constant pursuit of the knockout have made him a favorite of boxing purists.Description: Jesse Rodriguez, on the left, defeated Fernando Martinez by knockout in the tenth round to unify three super flyweight titles.
Rodriguez, who will turn 26 in January, is currently ranked fifth in ESPN’s pound-for-pound rankings. His next goals include unifying titles and possibly moving up a weight class. His potential is undeniable, and his rise to fame is a matter of time.
Abdullah Mason: Lessons in Valor
Abdullah Mason, with a unanimous decision victory over Sam Noakes, became the youngest boxing champion. Mason, 21 years old, demonstrated his talent and resilience by facing a tough and persistent opponent. This type of victory is fundamental to his development as a boxer.Description: Abdullah Mason, on the right, defeated Sam Noakes by unanimous decision to win the vacant WBO lightweight title in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday.
Despite his talent, Mason still has defensive deficiencies that he will need to correct. In a division with a wide variety of styles, he will have to rely on his determination and ability to overcome his opponents.
